The power of tourism in any sequence cannot be underestimated, with the sector’s capability to contribute to economic growth and mitigate poverty especially in Africa, being recognized. Under the theme “Connecting Africa’s Resources through Digital Transformation”, the World Economic Forum on Africa 2016, which took place between 11th -13th May in Kigali Rwanda, explored ideas towards combating global challenges, whose long term goal, in my opinion, remains to further revolutionize the continent. As Africa and the whole world anticipate the outcomes of the forum, we would all be forgiven to expect that measures and policies on mitigating poverty in the developing countries, most of which – by default – happen to be African countries, will be discussed and implemented. Yet, this is all a matter of wait-and-see.
While various stakeholders seem to focus on other factors such as technology and international trade as the way to go, which I don’t refute, it is important to remember that the tourism sector also holds immense potential towards alleviating poverty that is yet to be fully tapped. Think about this; while some remote places remain segregated with poor infrastructure, poorly built schools and health centers, these regions, are home to some of the unrivalled African cultures and tourist destinations.
Perhaps, if the respective governments would pay more attention to these rather left out attractions such as Turkana and Samburu in Kenya, Cape mac Clear in Malawi and Nyanyadzi hot springs in Zimbabwe among others; by first educating and sensitizing locals on the opportunities they hold, then there probably will be a difference. Establishing learning institutions that will provide technical training and financial support to tourism destinations in preparedness for skills as relates to tourism, will go a long way in putting food on the tables of a vast majority of the world’s hungry people; who according to WFP Hunger Statistics, live in developing countries, where 12.9 percent of the population is undernourished.
There is evident need for tourism stakeholders to increase efforts towards solving the poverty puzzle in developing nations. And as long as the human species has not quelled the need to explore new destinations, he will more often find ways and places to satisfy this unending urge. Then, what better way to tap into this opportunity but by investing in the tourism sector in developing countries? You are assured of virgin prospects while at the same time creating job opportunities for the locals. In return, this will stimulate local businesses and further translate into the development of the national economies.
Well noted Dr. Imasiku
Zambia can mitigate poverty through tourism.
Tourism should be viewed as an alternative approach in economic and environmental development as well as in the aspect of social and cultural in Zambia given the fact that we have a number of not fully exploited natural geographical tourist resources such as historical sites of our national heritage such as Ingombe Ilende of southern province, the beautiful flood plains of western ptovince and beatifull beaches in some part of the country such as the one in Samfya and not offcourse forgetting the majestic Victoria Falls, Zambia’s vast natural water resources, including a myriad of other falls dotted across the country, not to mention the famous Zambezi River. Zambia also has many National Parks which offer great opportunities for tourism.
As many of us see Zambia, combating poverty is probably the most leading problem that we still need deal with. But we are not going to do much if we will not utilize every possible alternatiive option such as tourism.
Its no doubt reasonable to argue that compared to fully developed countries, Zambia suffers from the lack of adequent funds to meet the needs of its people. Hence the government of Zambia to diversify into tourism as a way to help the nation to prosper. Zambia like many developing countries is mostly rural, and possess natural physical landscapes and features that can be developed to attract foreign visitors.
Let us emulate the example of tourism in other countries where it is firmly established. Saffice to say that we will need to invest in tourism if ever we are going to achieve our goal in this sector.
I am emphasizing investments in tourism because the growth of tourism in Zambia requires the need for an improved infrastructure. We need not only to develop and improve infrastructures for example improved roads helps the locals in outlying areas while airports may open up the economies of the remote regions. The international airports should befit the international standards becausr they give the first significant impression of how serious we are.
Socially one of the most important benefits of tourism especially in Zambia is the social exchange of the host country and the foreign tourist. It helps them to understand one another not only in learning their languages but also in their own cultures. By social exchange it would Zambia to adapt to the realities of modern life and improvement of one’s lifestyle. It would creates peace and stability between Zambia and other nations. It can help bridge the psychological and cultural distances that separate people of different races, religions and stages of social & economic development.
Culturally tourism emphasizes a sharing and appreciation of cultures rather than lack of trust brought about by isolation. The tourist and the local resident begin to appreciate the rich human and cultural diversity.
Environmentally tourism would helps to conserve the environment of Zambia in terms of reserving the historical sites, monuments and the development of the countries cultural heritage.
In conclusion the promotion of tourism in Zambia as a growth sector resides in its perceived potential to accelerate growth in GDP; to create employment: to increase foreign exchange earnings; to preserve and conserve the environment; and to enrich the culture of our nation.
Since Zambia tends to import more and its exports hold only a small portion in the international trading market leaving us to have a very limited financial resources, so capitalizing on tourism remains one of our best alternative to maintain a growing economy.